The University of Westminster’s partnership with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) – the United Nations’ migration agency – offers students the opportunity to work at the forefront of international humanitarian and migration policy.

Each year, Westminster students are selected for prestigious placements with IOM offices worldwide. These internships give students direct experience contributing to programmes that address global migration challenges, humanitarian crises and development initiatives.

Placements can take students to locations such as Geneva, Vienna, Senegal, Botswana, Jordan, and Costa Rica, where they work alongside international civil servants and policy experts to tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues.

These internships offer a rare opportunity for students to translate their academic learning into real-world impact. They gain professional experience in policy research, programme delivery, communications and data analysis while developing the global networks and skills needed to launch international careers.

However, internships within the UN system are often unpaid or only partially funded, creating significant financial barriers for many talented students.

Why this programme matters:

• The University of Westminster has one of the most diverse student populations in the UK, with many students being the first in their families to attend university.
• Without financial support, opportunities such as international internships can remain out of reach.
• Philanthropic funding helps to ensure that talent, ambition and commitment — not personal finances — determine who can take up these transformative opportunities.
• Donor support enables the University to provide travel, accommodation, and living cost assistance so that selected students can participate in IOM placements regardless of their background.

Real-world experience that changes lives

• Interns gain invaluable insight into the work of a major international organisation. They contribute to projects addressing migration governance, humanitarian response, public health, labour mobility and climate-related displacement.
• For many students, the internship becomes a launchpad into global careers.
• Several Westminster interns have gone on to secure consultancies and permanent roles within the UN system and international development organisations, demonstrating the long-term impact of these placements.
• By supporting this programme, donors help Westminster students take their first step into careers that contribute to global cooperation, humanitarian protection and sustainable development.

"I felt happiness and gratitude when I finally got my foot in the door, securing a position at a UN organisation. Having the opportunity to work in such a prestigious environment is an invaluable skill that I truly appreciate. Unlike many internships that offer little to no pay, being paid was crucial, as it enabled me to fully commit to and complete the experience. This opportunity has reignited my motivation, and my drive for success is stronger than ever. The placement itself was incredibly beneficial, helping me clarify my next steps— most notably, pursuing a master’s degree. I am now studying for an MSc in International Social and Public Policy at LSE, continuing my journey with renewed focus and ambition."

Sabia Khan

How your support helps:

A gift to the IOM Internship Programme will help:

• Provide financial support for students undertaking international UN internships
• Cover travel and living costs for placements lasting several months
• Enable talented students from all backgrounds to take up global opportunities
• Strengthen Westminster’s partnership with international organisations

With additional philanthropic support, the University can expand the number of students able to participate each year.

By supporting the IOM Internship Programme, you can help Westminster students gain life-changing international experience while contributing to global humanitarian work.

Your support will ensure that future leaders in international development, diplomacy and migration policy can begin their careers with the experience and confidence needed to make a difference.

Please consider making a gift today and help Westminster students take their place on the global stage.

For donors based in the United States, gifts can be made tax-effectively through the British Schools & Universities Foundation (BSUF), a registered 501(c)(3) charity. By donating to BSUF and naming the University of Westminster as your preferred beneficiary (including any specific fund or project), US taxpayers can make a contribution that is eligible for US tax deduction. BSUF then reviews and approves the grant, as required for IRS compliance, and forwards the funds to the University. We encourage donors to let us know once they have made a gift via BSUF so we can track this and ensure funds are properly received. Further information is available at https://www.bsuf.org/